In the U.S. Aids to Navigation System, lateral aids entering from seaward will display lights with which characteristic?

In the U.S. Aids to Navigation System, lateral aids are used to indicate the sides of the channel or channel features, guiding vessels as they navigate. When entering from seaward, these aids provide distinct lighting characteristics to ensure that mariners can easily identify them.

The characteristic of flashing lights is used to create a clear differentiation between lateral aids, helping to indicate which side of the channel to stay on. Occulting lights, which flash on and off but with longer periods of illumination than darkness, also serve to provide navigational direction. Quick flashing lights are similar but have a more rapid sequence, adding to the variety of visual signals.

Since lateral aids entering from seaward can utilize all these characteristics—flashing, occulting, and quick flashing—they contribute to the overall navigational framework, enhancing safety and reducing the risk of confusion for mariners on the water. This systematic approach of using different light characteristics ensures a comprehensive understanding of navigation protocols.